Severe storms threaten 42 million in Midwest

Several rounds of dangerous thunderstorms will erupt from the Dakotas into the Midwest and western Great Lakes, this afternoon and evening, according to AccuWeather.com.

Some of the cities and towns most at risk include Chicago, Milwaukee, Detroit, Des Moines and Fort Wayne, Ind.

The worst of the storms will bring damaging wind gusts as high as 60, 70 or even 80 mph. Large hail as big as golf balls or baseballs and a few tornadoes are also possible.

Wind gusts over 60 mph can uproot large trees, snap branches and down power lines, resulting in power outages. Spotty, drenching thunderstorms are predicted throughout the morning with stronger storms this afternoon and evening.